The largest and fastest-growing trade show in the utility industry is just a little more than two months away. The Utility Expo 2023 will bring over 1,000 companies and more than 200 product lines in the agriculture and construction-related industry sectors to Louisville, Kentucky this September.
As the industry gears up for this year's show, AEM caught up with Federal Signal's Dustin Rhodes to discuss the excitement surrounding The Utility Expo, what his company plans to showcase at the show and much, much more.
AEM: Why is it so important for your company to have a presence at The Utility Expo 2023?
Rhodes: The Utility Expo is the premier trade show for the utility industry, and it’s very important for our company to have a presence there. It gives Federal Signal and Vactor Manufacturing the ability to increase visibility to the full breadth of our different product lines. It offers ample opportunity to network with others and attend informational and educational sessions, as well as provides a great space to stay up to date on industry trends, as well as new products and services.
AEM: Exhibiting companies are always excited to share new or innovative product offerings and other features at the show. What can show attendees expect from Federal Signal and Vactor Manufacturing this year?
Rhodes: TRUVAC is a brand of vacuum excavator trucks that are designed specifically for safe digging. The TRUVAC trucks use patented DigRight technology to provide precision pressure control, which helps to prevent damage to underground utility lines.
Vactor is the industry leader in sewer cleaning. The Vactor trucks are equipped with Inteli-touch one-button engagement, which allows operators to simply press one button and the truck is ready to work. It doesn’t matter if you are just jetting a line, jetting and vacuuming, or hydroexcavating, it’s simply the press of one button.
Guzzler manufactures vacuum loaders that are used in environmental cleanups and plant maintenance. The Guzzler vacuum loaders have filtration systems that are unmatched by any competitor, which helps to ensure that the air that is released back into the environment is clean.
Federal Signal Corporation's products and services cover nearly every aspect of the utility market. The company's commitment to innovation and safety is evident in its products, and its customers can be confident that they are getting the best possible equipment for their needs.
AEM: What are you most looking forward to about this year’s event?
Rhodes: I’m most looking forward to seeing the growth of the show over previous years. The first time I attended the show was in 2019, and I thought it was big then, but when returning in 2021, I was overjoyed to see it had grown even more. I also look forward to talking to attendees about TRUVAC vacuum excavators and how the product can improve their excavation practices. Safe digging is more crucial than ever with utilities being moved from above to underground.
AEM: What sets The Utility Expo apart from other exhibitions and events?
Rhodes: Size and scope: The Utility Expo is the largest trade show for the utility industry, with more than 19,000 attendees. This gives us a unique opportunity to reach a wide audience of potential customers and partners.
Industry focus: The Utility Expo is focused specifically on the utility industry, which means that we can focus our marketing efforts on a specific audience. This helps us to reach the right people with the right message.
Education and networking: The Utility Expo offers a variety of educational sessions and workshops, which provides us with an opportunity to learn about the latest trends and technologies in the industry. We can also network with potential customers, partners and suppliers, which helps us build relationships and grow our business.
New product launches: The Utility Expo is a great place to launch new products and services. We can get feedback from customers and partners, and we can start building awareness for our new offerings.
AEM: Why should prospective attendees make sure they invest the time and resources to be in Louisville this September for The Utility Expo?
Rhodes: The Utility Expo is a valuable event for anyone involved in the utility industry. If you are looking to learn about the latest trends and technologies, network with industry leaders, or find new suppliers, then The Utility Expo is the place for you.
The Louisville area is constantly evolving. I have been to two Utility Expo shows prior to 2023, and every time I visit Louisville, I discover something new. 4th Street Live is a great place to let loose and enjoy the nightlife Louisville has to offer. Also, the growing restaurant scene provides plenty of locations to meet up with partners, vendors and customers.
If you’re involved in the utility industry, then I highly recommend attending The Utility Expo. It’s a valuable event that can help you grow your business and learn about the latest trends and technologies.
About The Utility Expo
The Utility Expo is the largest event for utility professionals and construction contractors seeking comprehensive insights into the latest industry technologies, innovations and trends. The biennial trade show, known for equipment test drives and interactive product demonstrations will be September 26-28, 2023, in Louisville, Kentucky. For more information, visit www.utilityexpo.com.
For more AEM member perspectives, subscribe to the AEM Industry Advisor.
